The All-Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) has devised robust plans to achieve ample food production to sustain 200 million Nigerians during the 2023 wet season farming.
AFAN’s President, Rafiu Rabiu Mudi, affirmed that farmers are intensifying their efforts to ensure abundant food supply.
Mudi expressed confidence in surpassing previous production levels, stating that they are channeling more resources into agriculture, their primary business.
He expects a bountiful harvest by the end of this season.
However, Mudi voiced concern over the burden of multiple taxes farmers face, causing significant reductions in their profits.
He called for urgent government intervention to address this issue, citing the example of tomatoes, which encounter exorbitant taxes during transportation, leading to inflated market prices.
In pursuit of equal opportunities and grants, Mudi advocated for a comprehensive database of Nigerian farmers.
He suggested that AFAN should lead the compilation, being the apex body representing all commodity associations at the local, state, and federal levels.
Mudi lauded the previous administration for achieving 85% to 90% of the total demand for rice, a remarkable accomplishment compared to the prior government’s performance of only 25%.
He highlighted similar progress in wheat production, rising from less than 2% to approximately 12% of local demand.
Mudi encouraged Nigerians to embrace gradual growth, emphasizing that achieving food security requires a systematic process.
He cited mechanization, irrigation, and extension services as critical areas needing attention for rapid advancement.
Discussing the Presidential Fertilizer Initiative (PFI) of the Buhari administration, Mudi expressed dissatisfaction, asserting that the initiative faced challenges and was eventually canceled by the president.
He attributed the failure to the appointment of unqualified personnel to handle the project, stressing the importance of having knowledgeable and experienced farmers involved.